The government has hailed an EU-wide survey showing business optimism at its highest in Malta.

The survey, commissioned by the European Commission, shows the index of economic sentiment in February at 115, the highest among EU states, and, the government said, 25 per cent higher than in February of the last year of the former government. 

Nearly all economic sectors were positive, with the highest optimism shown by those in the services sector, at almost three times the level in the rest of the EU. 

There was also strong positive economic sentiment among retailers, while in manufacturing, orders were almost double the eurozone average and many respondents said they expected to take on more workers. 

Consumers in Malta reported that they expected their financial situation to continue to improve, in contrast to pessimism in most EU countries. 

The data showed that economic growth was benefiting Maltese businesses and families, the government said.